Giant Steps Primavera Vineyard Pinot Noir 2021

Winemaking and Drinking

Giant Steps, a renowned winery in the Yarra Valley, has consistently produced exceptional wines that capture the essence of their terroir. The Giant Steps Primavera Vineyard Pinot Noir 2021 is no exception, showcasing the meticulous craftsmanship and dedication to quality that the winery is known for.

Origins and Vineyard

The Primavera Vineyard, located in the Yarra Valley, is known for its unique microclimate and diverse soil composition. This vineyard is situated in the heart of the Upper Yarra, at an elevation that provides a cooler climate, ideal for growing Pinot Noir. The vineyard's rich, volcanic soil contributes to the complexity and depth of the wines produced here.

The 2021 vintage benefited from an exceptional growing season. The weather was relatively cool with moderate rainfall, which allowed for a slow and even ripening process. This, combined with the vineyard's meticulous viticultural practices, resulted in grapes of outstanding quality. The harvest was carried out by hand, ensuring that only the best fruit was selected for production.

Winemaking

The winemaking process for the Giant Steps Primavera Vineyard Pinot Noir 2021 is a blend of traditional and modern techniques. The grapes underwent a cold soak for several days to extract color and flavor before fermentation. Indigenous yeasts were used to enhance the wine's complexity and authenticity. Post-fermentation, the wine was aged in French oak barrels, with a mix of new and old wood, for around 11 months. This careful aging process added layers of texture and subtle oak influences without overpowering the fruit characteristics.

Tasting Notes

The Giant Steps Primavera Vineyard Pinot Noir 2021 is a testament to the elegance and sophistication of Yarra Valley Pinot Noir. In the glass, the wine exhibits a vibrant ruby red color. On the nose, it offers a bouquet of red cherries, raspberries, and cranberries, complemented by hints of rose petals, spices, and a touch of earthiness.

On the palate, the wine is beautifully balanced with a silky texture and fine tannins. Flavors of red berries and plums are interwoven with nuances of clove, cinnamon, and a subtle mineral undertone. The wine's bright acidity provides a refreshing backbone, leading to a long, graceful finish with a lingering hint of forest floor and spice.

Awards and Recognition

The 2021 vintage of the Giant Steps Primavera Vineyard Pinot Noir has garnered significant acclaim both domestically and internationally. It has received high praise from wine critics and has been awarded numerous accolades. Notably, it received a gold medal at the Yarra Valley Wine Show and was rated 96 points by James Halliday's Wine Companion, highlighting its exceptional quality and aging potential.

Internationally, the wine has been featured in Decanter's top Pinot Noir selections and has received accolades from Wine Spectator and Wine Enthusiast, further cementing its reputation as a world-class Pinot Noir.

The Giant Steps Primavera Vineyard Pinot Noir 2021 is a remarkable wine that captures the essence of its unique terroir. Its meticulous production process, combined with an outstanding vintage, has resulted in a wine of exceptional quality and complexity. Whether enjoyed now or cellared for future enjoyment, this Pinot Noir is a true representation of the excellence that Giant Steps consistently delivers.